UConn adds a safety
This weekend prospects flocked to UConn to attend a summer camp put on by the Huskies. One of the young men in attendance came away from the experience impressed. So impressed, in fact, he felt the time was right to make a commitment.
Safety Chris Lopes, a 5-foot-10, 186-pound rising senior from Tilton (N.H.) Tilton School, ended the recruiting process on Saturday, giving UConn their fifth commitment from the class of 2009.
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"I went to the camp today and committed on the spot," Lopes said. "I think UConn's a great school. I've always loved UConn. I just felt like I was at home there. The coaches said I could play early.
"I'll probably redshirt my freshman year. They love my speed and my size, and they think I'll fit in."
Lopes had received offers from New Hampshire and Maine before committing to UConn. He had also entertained interest from Boston College.
How does he see himself fitting in with the Huskies?
"I might just want to redshirt and come back out and play after a year. If I have the opportunity to play as a true freshman I would, but I'll most likely redshirt.
"I could play both (cornerback or safety) very well. The coaches told me they play with three cornerbacks. They run a 4-3 defense but they said they play with basically three corners and a safety. I would most likely fit into the corner category.
"Robert Vaughn plays safety, but by the time I get there he might be gone. I could really play either position."
Lopes said he was eager to end the recruiting process and does not anticipate a change of heart.
As a junior Lopes had 550 yards of total offense with six touchdowns. He also recorded 65 tackles with four interceptions and a fumble recovery.